You will have learnt about a key question from child psychology that is relevant to today’s society - AQA - A-Level Psychology - Question 14 - 2017 - Paper 2

In child psychology, a significant question revolves around attachment styles and their implications on child development. Attachment theory, primarily developed by John Bowlby and Mary Ainsworth, posits that the emotional bond between a child and caregiver significantly impacts the child's emotional and psychological well-being.

1. Ainsworth's Baltimore Study (1978): Ainsworth found that 65% of children were securely attached, while 49% were insecurely attached. This study provides foundational insights into attachment styles.

2. Cultural Variations: Grossmann's research in Germany showed only 33% secure attachments, deviating from Ainsworth's findings, highlighting cultural influences on attachment styles. Takahashi's study in Japan revealed different attachment behaviors, indicating that higher levels of insecure-resistant attachments can exist in different cultures.

3. Sagi's Studies: Research by Sagi (1985) in a Kibbutz showed that children sleeping arrangements affected attachment styles significantly; 50% of children were type C (avoidant).

4. Implications of Findings: The findings suggest that attachment is influenced by both nature and nurture. For instance, Hattie might find that Japanese participants demonstrate different attachment behaviors due to cultural practices, emphasizing the environmental impact.

5. Broader Educational Context: Hattie’s conclusions could lead to significant implications in parenting and education, suggesting that cultural differences in attachment could inform better practices in caregiving and child-rearing across diverse societies.

6. Further Research: Continued exploration of how these attachment styles manifest across cultures is essential for understanding their broad implications on child development.